Maryland Approves Direct Shipping
The governor of Maryland, Martin O’Malley, has signed is expected to sign a law allowing direct shipping by wineries.
The law is the result of legislative action at the state level — that is, wine drinkers banding together to press for their rights. It was comically demonstrated to be necessary because Maryland is surrounded by states that allow direct shipping. Maryland wine lovers were having their wines — including wines from Maryland wineries — shipped to their offices in D.C. or to friends in Virginia or West Virginia. The resulting loss of tax revenue irritated legislators.
It is evidence, for the cynics among us, that sometimes the system works.
The approved legislation was an attempt at a compromise after meeting with stakeholders, Del. Charles E. Barkley, the sponsor of that measure, said in a recent cobbmmittee meeting.
“It will not satisfy everyone, but I think it is a good first step,” said Barkley (D-Dist. 39) of Germantown.
Good work, Maryland. Could you do me a favor and give Kentucky a call?
April 15th, 2011 at 11:38 AM
I need to report to you that Governor O’Malley HAS NOT yet signed House Bill 1172 into law. The bill has been passed by both houses of the maryland General Assembly and has been sent to the Governor for his signature. That event has not happened yet. The Governor has announced previousily that if the bill were sent to him he would sign it. WHEN SIGNED the bill will be effective Juy 1, 2011
April 15th, 2011 at 12:03 PM
Thanks. It’s fixed.